Why it matters: The article highlights the expungement of marijuana-related convictions in the United States over the past five years. The expungements are a result of the legalization of recreational cannabis in several states, which also included provisions for pardons and expungements for previous convictions. Additionally, President Joe Biden issued pardons to individuals with low-level federal marijuana convictions. The expungements aim to address the unfair burden and stigma faced by individuals with past convictions for behavior that is no longer considered a crime.
What they are saying: The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) released a report stating that state and local courts have taken action on approximately 2.3 million marijuana-related cases since 2018. The states most active in providing relief include California, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia, all of which have legalized recreational cannabis. NORML estimates that over 29 million marijuana-related arrests have been made since 1965, with 90 percent being charged with low-level possession offenses. NORML emphasizes the need for justice and fairness in addressing past wrongs resulting from cannabis prohibition and criminalization.
The big picture: The expungement of marijuana-related convictions is an important step in rectifying the consequences of cannabis prohibition. It recognizes the changing attitudes towards marijuana and aims to remove the barriers to employment, housing, and education faced by individuals with criminal records for marijuana possession. While state and local reforms have been significant, cannabis remains prohibited under federal law. However, President Biden’s pardons and calls for state-level action showcase a shift towards a more progressive approach to marijuana.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor how other states respond to the expungement movement and whether they enact similar provisions to rectify past marijuana-related convictions. The federal review of marijuana scheduling initiated by President Biden could potentially lead to further reforms and changes in federal law. Additionally, the impact of expungements on individuals’ lives and opportunities should be assessed to determine the effectiveness of these measures.
My take: The expungement of marijuana-related convictions is a positive development that recognizes the changing perceptions of cannabis and addresses the disproportionate impact of prohibition on marginalized communities. By removing the burden of past convictions, individuals can have a fair chance at employment, housing, and education. While there is still work to be done, such as federal legalization and further reform, the expungement movement signifies progress in dismantling the harmful consequences of cannabis prohibition.
